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Psychotherapy for Suicidal Ideation

The kind of treatment suitable for suicidal ideation (thoughts of, or plans to take one’s own life) will depend on the individual’s situation. If the individual is close to attempting suicide, or has made an attempt at taking their own life, then the emergency services need to be contacted for help and support. The Samaritans is a twenty four hour help line for those who need immediate help & support: 08475 909090 or phone free on 116 123 (UK).

Symptoms of suicidal ideation include:

Hopelessness

Depression

Sense of Worthlessness

Severe anxiety

Panic attacks

Agitation

Psychosis (a sense of being totally out of control)

Desire to leave the pain behind.

Some common triggers for suicidal ideation include:

Bullying

Unemployment

Bereavement

Relationship Breakdown

Family relationships

Sexual Abuse

Sexual confusion

Remorse

Traumatic events

Financial pressures

Treatment for suicidal ideation is available and can be highly effective.

The first step in getting help is acknowledging that help is needed. The second, and often difficult step, is asking for help. For those suffering with suicidal thoughts, it is often hard to share; feelings of shame, embarrassment or isolation can be overwhelming. But sharing the pain is often the first step in managing it. Help can come in many ways…a phone call to a friend, to the emergency services or a call to your GP.

Psychotherapy or counselling can be a helpful way to explore overwhelming feelings that lie behind the suicidal thoughts. Sharing the pain with an experienced and sympathetic psychotherapist can help gain clarity, understanding, hope and a way to bear what has been unbearable. The psychotherapists at The Cavendish Psychotherapy Practice in Central London are experienced in working with patients who are struggling with suicidal ideation and are able to offer psychotherapy and counselling and also immediate (and on site) referrals to GPs for appropriate medication.